Hayes' top five finish

Will Hayes ranked second in the VFL for total uncontested possessions (averaging 16 per game) and third for total inside-50s (five). (Photo: Liz Vagg/Western Bulldogs)

Footscray Bulldogs midfielder Will Hayes has been rewarded for his stellar 2018 season, landing within the top five of the J.J. Liston Trophy count this Monday night at Crown Palladium.

Playing every game for the ‘Scray this year, the 23-year-old enjoyed regular appearances in the best afield list – topping the side’s average disposals (26) and contested possessions (10.3), while ranking second in the VFL for total uncontested possessions (averaging 16 per game) and third for total inside-50s (five).

Securing a vote in six appearances, Hayes followed closely behind Richmond’s Anthony Miles for the first half of the season, before a gallant finish from Williamstown’s Michael Gibbons, Collingwood midfielder Alex Woodward and Werribee’s Sam Collins pushed the prolific ball winner out of the top two after Round 14.

Hayes ended the season with 14 votes - just two votes shy of Collins and Woodward.

Alongside co-captain Angus Monfries, Hayes was also named in the 2018 Peter Jackson VFL Team of the Year.